Christians often differ on the most appropriate or authentic

way to express praise to God, but these arguments usually just

reflect personality and background differences. Many forms of

praise are mentioned in the Bible, among them confessing,

singing, shouting, standing in honor, kneeling, dancing, making a

joyful noise, testifying, playing musical instruments, and raising

hands.4 The best style of worship is the one that most

authentically represents your love for God, based on the

background and personality God gave you.

My friend Gary Thomas noticed that many Christians seem

stuck in a worship rut—an unsatisfying routine—instead of

having a vibrant friendship with

God, because they force themselves

to use devotional methods or

worship styles that don’t fit the way

God uniquely shaped them.

Gary wondered, If God

intentionally made us all different,

why should everyone be expected to

love God in the same way? As he read Christian classics and

interviewed mature believers, Gary discovered that Christians have used many different paths for 2,000
years to enjoy intimacy

with God: being outdoors, studying, singing, reading, dancing,

creating art, serving others, having solitude, enjoying fellowship,

and participating in dozens of other activities.